Nigeria has launched a major military modernization drive with plans to acquire 24 Italian-built M-346FA fighter jets from Leonardo S.p.A., marking the largest single military aircraft purchase in West African history. The deal, valued at about €1.2 billion, includes long-term maintenance and support and signals a deepening defence partnership between Nigeria and the Italian aerospace firm.
The procurement builds on earlier cabinet approval for a $618 million borrowing plan to purchase six M-346 attack jets and ammunition for the Nigerian Air Force. The first six aircraft are currently under production in Italy, with three scheduled for delivery by early 2025, while full deliveries are expected to continue through mid-2026.
The acquisition comes amid persistent security challenges, including insurgency in the Northeast, banditry in the Northwest and communal violence in the Middle Belt. The enhanced combat and surveillance capabilities of the M-346FA fleet are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s response to internal threats while reinforcing its role as a regional security guarantor following recent military intervention in neighbouring Benin.